A healthy lifestyle and portion control keeps Rocco at his fighting weight |
This post and giveaway is sponsored by Purina. As always, we only share information we think our readers will enjoy.
More than half the dogs and cats in the Unites States are overweight or obese, a statistic we've become all to familiar with in the last few years.
Yet with all the hype about pet obesity, it amazes us that so many people still don't know that their Fluffy or Fido is overweight. And that's pretty scary when you consider what a few extra pounds can mean for the health of your pup or kitty.
In a groundbreaking 14-year Purina study, findings showed that feeding dogs so that they have the proper proportion of fat to muscle (ideal body condition) throughout their lives can significantly extend a dog's healthy years by an average of 1.8 years for the dogs in the study.
Fortunately,
weight is a condition that can be managed with a low calorie, low fat diet fed
at the right amount, combined with adopting some healthy habits. Purina® ProPlan® Veterinary Diets offers these tips on healthy living and how to properly
assess your dog or cat’s weight.
1. CHECK FOR OBESITY
How do you know if your dog is overweight? Start with a Healthy Hug! A simple rib check is a great way to determine if your dog has a weight issue—and it’s a great excuse to give him an extra hug today. Consult your veterinarian about whether a weight management program is right for your dog.
2. FOLLOW
A NUTRITION PLAN
You and your veterinarian can
create a nutrition plan that feeds your dog to his ideal body condition. Refer to
the feeding guidelines on your package and adjust feeding amounts as necessary
based on your dog’s activity level and body condition change.
3.
MEASURE EACH SERVING
Don’t just
fill up your dog’s bowl at each feeding. Follow feeding guidelines to give your dog the proper-size serving for his ideal
body condition.
4.
LIMIT TREATS
Shower
your dog with love and attention instead of too many high-calorie treats,
especially table scraps. Be mindful of the quality and quantity of treats you
feed each day—calories add up quickly.
5.
GET MOVING
Daily
exercise is one of the keys to your dog’s health. Just 20 minutes of walking or
playing fetch each day can help keep your dog fit. Be sure to check with your
veterinarian before changing your dog’s exercise routine
Eating Healthy
Even if your dog is overweight, there’s still time to implement a
safe, effective weight loss program with Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management® Canine
Formulas. These specialized formulas contain a high level of protein to help
your adult dog lose fat while maintaining lean muscle mass.
And, there's a formula for cats, too.
And, there's a formula for cats, too.
Website: http://www.fightingpetobesity.com/
Win a free bag of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management
One lucky winner will receive a coupon for a free bag of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management to help your dog or cat get to his ideal weight. NOTE: coupon will need to be redeemed at a vet clinic. Value up to $60.Enter via the giveaway widget below. Good luck!